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Organic Gardens/Gardening over grass

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Expert: Frank and Vicky Giannangelo - 2/2/2009


Question
My husband and I are planning to start an organic garden in our back yard, but right now we have grass there.  What steps do we need to take to remove the grass and begin our garden, without having the grass grow back into the garden area?

Answer
Just dig all of the grass up, shake off all the dirt, and compost the roots, or move the sod to another area. If you dig below the root line, the grass should not come up, and if you mulch well, what does make it through a layer of 3 inch mulch will easily come out. Be sure to test your soil and start with a good foundation. For more information on soil building please visit our website:  http://www.avant-gardening.com  

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Volunteer

Frank and Vicky Giannangelo

Expertise

We will research and answer all questions about organic gardening, soil building, square foot gardening, composting, mulching, planting techniques, sustainable gardening, sustainability, garden design, and how to create a simple reflection pool to attract birds and wildlife. Over the years we have learned that plants respond to the garden's aesthetics, soil conditions, and the attitude of the gardener. The healthier the soil and soul, the healthier the plants become, and are therefore more able to resist insect attacks.

Experience

40 years experience in private and professional organic gardening, creating formal gardens, giving organic gardening workshops, and sharing our insights, both in the Southwest and the Northwest.

Publications
"Growing with the Seasons" a book by Frank and Vicky Giannangelo about their adventures in organic gardening, community, sustainability, and personal growth. Avant-Gardening Tid-Bytes, an online newsletter we published monthly from 2001-2008. The articles are archived on our website.

Education/Credentials
We both have BA degrees. Vicky from the University of Washington, and Frank from the University of Arizona. We have learned by experience, the best teacher...!

Awards and Honors
NM Book Awards. Second place for "Growing with the Seasons" a book by Frank and Vicky Giannangelo about their adventures in organic gardening, community, sustainability, and personal growth.

Past/Present Clients
We are now back in WA state, creating organic display gardens on San Juan Island, WA and will be open to the public for produce, cut flowers, and culinary herbs. Seasonal.

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